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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (102 HP @ 6000 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 530 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 (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 311 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra.
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 | 4966 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 102 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 461 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81.5 mm |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |