1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2004 Opel Vectra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 87 kg more than 2004 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 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Vectra (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1523 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 61 L |
