2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (257 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (176 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 245 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 E 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 E. 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 E (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
