1983 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 204 kg more than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 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 (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. 2003 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1983 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S 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:
| 1983 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1764 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 |
