1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2008 Opel Insignia is newer by 10 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 2008 Opel Insignia. (177 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Insignia.
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, 2008 Opel Insignia, 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 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Insignia. (230 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Insignia. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Insignia has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Insignia 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 | 2008 Opel Insignia | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SL | Insignia |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 349 HP | 177 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 530 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1856 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1498 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2737 mm |