1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2006 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Opel Vectra is newer by 33 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 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Vectra (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Vectra weights approximately 331 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 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 (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 248 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 | 1626 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 |
