1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2008 Opel Zafira is newer by 12 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Zafira (237 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Zafira should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 305 kg more than 2008 Opel Zafira.
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, 2008 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 (330 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Zafira. (321 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Zafira. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Zafira has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Zafira will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Opel Zafira | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | S | Zafira |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 237 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 321 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1640 mm |