2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 395 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 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 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (162 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
