2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Opel Vectra

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 6,208 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (451 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 378 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (73 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1827 kg more than 1988 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 492 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1988 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1988 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mercedes-Benz C 1988 Opel Vectra
Make Mercedes-Benz Opel
Model C Vectra
Year Released 2009 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6208 cc 1396 cc
Horse Power 451 HP 73 HP
Engine RPM 6800 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 600 Nm 108 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 102 mm 77.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 94.6 mm 73.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.3:1 9.4:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 173 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 2832 kg 1005 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1800 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2600 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 66 L 61 L