1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (209 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 29 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 380. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 380 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 239 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
