2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2001 Opel Vectra. (142 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 529 kg more than 2001 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (470 Nm) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Vectra. (203 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1844 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
