2006 Opel Zafira vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Opel Zafira is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP) has 23 more horse power than 2006 Opel Zafira. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Zafira weights approximately 155 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Zafira. (176 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Zafira.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Zafira | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Zafira | SLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 161 HP |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
