1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,798 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2008 Opel Vectra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 450 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Vectra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2798 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 61 L |
