2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Vauxhall Vectra would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. (121 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 606 kg more than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Vauxhall Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | S | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1891 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2710 mm |
