2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Vectra (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Vectra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2004 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
