2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2009 Opel Insignia is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 387 more horse power than 2009 Opel Insignia. (217 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Insignia.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Opel Insignia, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 650 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Insignia. (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Insignia. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Opel Insignia has manual transmission. 2009 Opel Insignia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Insignia |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2737 mm |
