2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 8 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 435 kg more than 1998 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Meriva. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Meriva. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97.1 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2640 mm |
