2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 230 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 199 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
