2009 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1973 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1973 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 370 kg more than 1973 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Opel Rekord 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 1973 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz B | 1973 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | B | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2680 mm |
