1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2002 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2002 Opel Vectra is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2002 Opel Vectra. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Vectra.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Vectra. (251 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Vectra. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 has automatic transmission and 2002 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2002 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2002 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 420 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2710 mm |
