1973 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1988 Opel Vectra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (56 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 490 kg more than 1988 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 S (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (105 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 75 L |
