2005 Holden Vectra vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Holden Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Holden Vectra would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Holden Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Holden Vectra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Holden Vectra should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Holden Vectra weights approximately 270 kg more than 2008 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, 2005 Holden Vectra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Holden Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2008 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2005 Holden Vectra has manual transmission. 2005 Holden Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Holden Vectra | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Vectra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
