1982 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (209 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 65 kg more than 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2840 mm |
