2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 535 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 60 L |
