1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 90 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva, 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
