2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 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 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Vectra (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 27 kg more than 2004 Opel Vectra.
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, 2004 Opel Vectra (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2004 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1523 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
