1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 189 kg more than 2003 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1794 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3610 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
