1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2007 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2007 Opel Vectra is newer by 33 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Vectra (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 5 kg more than 2007 Opel Vectra.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 82 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 | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 61 L |
