1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Vectra is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. (100 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. (205 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2003 Vauxhall Vectra has manual transmission. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2003 Vauxhall Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | 450 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
