1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Opel Zafira
To start off, 1999 Opel Zafira is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1999 Opel Zafira. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 220 kg more than 1999 Opel Zafira. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Opel Zafira, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Zafira. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Zafira.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 1999 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 58 L |
