2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 5 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 205 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (229 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
