2001 Opel Zafira vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Opel Zafira is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2001 Opel Zafira. (98 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 275 kg more than 2001 Opel Zafira. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Zafira. (220 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Zafira. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2001 Opel Zafira has manual transmission. 2001 Opel Zafira will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Zafira | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Zafira | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 80 L |
