1967 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Opel Vectra

To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (152 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 250 kg more than 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 (229 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL.

Compare all specifications:

1967 Mercedes-Benz SL 2003 Opel Vectra
Make Mercedes-Benz Opel
Model SL Vectra
Year Released 1967 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2306 cc 2197 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 152 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 196 Nm 229 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 12.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 1550 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4830 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2840 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 60 L