1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2004 Opel Zafira is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2004 Opel Zafira. (100 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 325 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Zafira. (220 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Zafira. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2004 Opel Zafira has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Zafira will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 14 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |
