1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2003 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
