1980 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1991 Opel Frontera
To start off, 1991 Opel Frontera is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1991 Opel Frontera. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Frontera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Frontera weights approximately 44 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1991 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Opel Frontera will offer significantly more control. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Frontera. (170 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Frontera. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1991 Opel Frontera has manual transmission. 1991 Opel Frontera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | 1991 Opel Frontera | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Frontera |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1639 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2470 mm |
