2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2009 Opel Zafira 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 272 more horse power than 2009 Opel Zafira. (238 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Zafira.
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 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 510 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Zafira. (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Zafira. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Opel Zafira has manual transmission. 2009 Opel Zafira 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 Zafira | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Zafira |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |
