2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Vauxhall Vectra would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. (174 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra weights approximately 15 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2003 Vauxhall Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | 3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
