2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 286 more horse power than 2008 Opel Vectra. (208 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 426 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Vectra. (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88 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 | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 61 L |
