1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2007 Opel Zafira is newer by 9 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 2007 Opel Zafira. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Opel Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 422 kg more than 2007 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, 2007 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 (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Opel Zafira. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Opel Zafira. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Opel Zafira has manual transmission. 2007 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 | 2007 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1628 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |
