2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Opel Speedster
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Speedster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Speedster would be higher. At 5,439 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 1999 Opel Speedster. (147 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Speedster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1064 kg more than 1999 Opel Speedster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 598 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Speedster. (202 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Speedster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1999 Opel Speedster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Speedster |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2009 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
