1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra is newer by 32 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2005 Opel Vectra. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Vectra. (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2005 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 61 L |
