1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2008 Opel Zafira 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Zafira (237 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Zafira should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 155 kg more than 2008 Opel Zafira.
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 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, 2008 Opel Zafira (321 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Zafira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Opel Zafira | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SL | Zafira |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
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 | 237 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 321 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 86 mm |
Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1640 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |