1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 8 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (56 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 196 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (105 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1074 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2600 mm |
