2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Vauxhall Vectra
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Vauxhall Vectra would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Vauxhall Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Vauxhall Vectra weights approximately 220 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 2002 Vauxhall Vectra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Vauxhall Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2002 Vauxhall Vectra has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Vauxhall Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2002 Vauxhall Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | 3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
