2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (276 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 298 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Opel Vectra (355 Nm) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 2008 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 74.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1282 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 10.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
