2003 Opel Vectra vs. 1961 Simca Ariane
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Simca Ariane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Simca Ariane would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (152 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1961 Simca Ariane. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1961 Simca Ariane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 450 kg more than 1961 Simca Ariane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Simca Ariane is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 Simca Ariane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Opel Vectra (229 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Simca Ariane. (90 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Simca Ariane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Vectra | 1961 Simca Ariane | |
| Make | Opel | Simca |
| Model | Vectra | Ariane |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 7.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2700 mm |
