1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Vectra (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2004 Opel Vectra.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 300 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2740 mm |
