1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,195 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (125 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. (120 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 150 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. 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 (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 220 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 2169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
