1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Vauxhall Vectra

To start off, 2002 Vauxhall Vectra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. (208 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 610 kg more than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Vauxhall 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra. (301 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Vauxhall Vectra.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Mercedes-Benz S 2002 Vauxhall Vectra
Make Mercedes-Benz Vauxhall
Model S Vectra
Year Released 1998 2002
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5786 cc 3175 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 362 HP 208 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 530 Nm 301 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 3800 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 2040 kg 1430 kg
Vehicle Length 5160 mm 4600 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 3090 mm 2710 mm