1988 Opel Vectra vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (523 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 421 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 485 kg more than 1988 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 650 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra. 1988 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Opel Vectra | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Vectra | SL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 523 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.5 seconds | 4.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2585 mm |
