1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Opel Speedster
To start off, 2003 Opel Speedster is newer by 32 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 23 more horse power than 2003 Opel Speedster. (145 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Speedster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 484 kg more than 2003 Opel Speedster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Speedster. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Speedster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Opel Speedster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Speedster |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 876 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
