1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2001 Opel Vectra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Vectra (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Vectra weights approximately 75 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Vectra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 61 L |
