1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1999 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1999 Opel Vectra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 (109 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1999 Opel Vectra. (81 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Vectra weights approximately 44 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, both vehicles can yield 185 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1999 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 230 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
