2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1980 Opel Commodore
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Commodore would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1980 Opel Commodore. (115 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 520 kg more than 1980 Opel Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Commodore. (179 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 1980 Opel Commodore | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
