2009 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1998 Opel Speedster
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Speedster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Speedster would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Speedster (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 525 kg more than 1998 Opel Speedster.
Because 1998 Opel Speedster 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 1998 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 1998 Opel Speedster (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz B | 1998 Opel Speedster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | B | Speedster |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
