1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Holden Vectra
To start off, 2002 Holden Vectra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2002 Holden Vectra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Holden Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 230 kg more than 2002 Holden Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Holden 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Holden Vectra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Holden Vectra. 2002 Holden Vectra has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Holden Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Holden Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Holden |
| Model | SL | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
