2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Vectra weights approximately 85 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1995 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1430 mm |
