1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Opel Vectra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2006 Opel Vectra. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Vectra weights approximately 143 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Vectra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2006 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1503 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
