2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (229 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
