1997 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2005 Opel Vectra. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 690 kg more than 2005 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Vectra (321 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
