2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2004 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2004 Opel Meriva is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2004 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Meriva weights approximately 90 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Meriva. (230 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2004 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
