1996 Opel Vectra vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 220 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Vectra | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Vectra | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 68.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
