2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1520 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 185 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1430 mm |
