2007 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Zafira. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Zafira would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 2001 Opel Zafira. (98 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 363 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 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Zafira. (220 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Zafira. 2007 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Zafira |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 58 L |
