1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 5 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 420. 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 420 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 2957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2740 mm |
