1996 Opel Vectra vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 15 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (263 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 494 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.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 450 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Vectra | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Vectra | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1459 mm |
