1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 395 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1687 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 199 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
