2005 Holden Vectra vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Holden Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Holden Vectra would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2005 Holden Vectra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Holden Vectra.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Holden 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Holden Vectra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Holden Vectra. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Holden Vectra has manual transmission. 2005 Holden Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Holden Vectra | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Vectra | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
