2002 Holden Vectra vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Holden Vectra is newer by 4 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 2,799 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 65 more horse power than 2002 Holden Vectra. (139 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Holden Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 510 kg more than 2002 Holden 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, 2002 Holden 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 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Holden Vectra. (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Holden Vectra. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 Holden Vectra has manual transmission. 2002 Holden 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:
| 2002 Holden Vectra | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Vectra | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
