2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Vectra weights approximately 201 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1266 kg |
