2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (176 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 165 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
