1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Opel Vectra. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 245 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1985 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 1985 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 300 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 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 | 1340 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2840 mm |
