1970 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1999 Opel Vectra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 168 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Vectra weights approximately 110 kg more than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1970 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Vectra. (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1999 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
