1997 Opel Vectra vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1997 Opel Vectra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 355 kg more than 1997 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Vectra. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Vectra | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Vectra | SLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1303 mm |
