2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 519 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
