1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Opel Vectra. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 37 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 1976 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 1976 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 (270 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2005 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2005 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 11.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1523 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 61 L |
