1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (73 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 825 kg more than 1988 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1988 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1988 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SL | Vectra |
Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1396 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 224 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 77.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.4:1 |
Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1005 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2600 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 61 L |