2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 475 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
