1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2001 Opel Vectra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 600 kg more than 2001 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Vectra. (270 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Vectra. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2001 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2001 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2001 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1500 mm |
