2000 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Opel Vectra

To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL (217 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 365 kg more than 2003 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2000 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (162 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra. 2003 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2000 Mercedes-Benz SL 2003 Opel Vectra
Make Mercedes-Benz Opel
Model SL Vectra
Year Released 2000 2003
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3199 cc 1794 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 217 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 316 Nm 162 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.9 mm 80.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 88.2 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1755 kg 1390 kg
Vehicle Length 4470 mm 4500 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 60 L