2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1991 Opel Calibra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Opel Calibra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Opel Calibra would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 403 more horse power than 1991 Opel Calibra. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Calibra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 50 kg more than 1991 Opel Calibra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Opel Calibra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Opel Calibra will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 456 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Calibra. (174 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Calibra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1991 Opel Calibra has manual transmission. 1991 Opel Calibra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1991 Opel Calibra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Calibra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 630 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 75 L |
