1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2005 Opel Vectra. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 360 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 1974 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 1974 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, 2005 Opel Vectra (321 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2005 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 61 L |
