2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 11 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 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 544 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | CLS | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4964 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1430 mm |
