1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2008 Opel Zafira is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,687 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Zafira (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Zafira should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Zafira weights approximately 298 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Zafira. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Zafira.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1687 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 176 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 13 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 58 L |
