2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Opel Vectra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 140 kg more than 1997 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Vectra. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1997 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1430 mm |
