1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2000 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2000 Opel Meriva is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2000 Opel Meriva. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Opel Meriva weights approximately 33 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Opel Meriva, 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Opel Meriva. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2000 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2490 mm |
