2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 364 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (130 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 891 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 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (180 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 75 L |
