1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2004 Opel Zafira is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2004 Opel Zafira. (127 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 559 kg more than 2004 Opel Zafira. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Zafira. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Zafira.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
