1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 319 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2003 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 300 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3005 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 148 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1764 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
