1996 Opel Vectra vs. 2012 GMC Sierra

To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra is newer by 16 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1045 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 2012 GMC Sierra 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 2012 GMC Sierra. 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, 2012 GMC Sierra (413 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra. 2012 GMC Sierra 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. 2012 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Opel Vectra 2012 GMC Sierra
Make Opel GMC
Model Vectra Sierra
Year Released 1996 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1799 cc 4800 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 114 HP 302 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 413 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Flex Fuel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 4-speed automatic
Vehicle Weight 1266 kg 2311 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 5847 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 2032 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1875 mm