2003 Opel Vectra vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (209 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 135 kg more than 2003 Opel Vectra.
Because 1997 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 1997 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Vectra | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Vectra | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
