2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 392 more horse power than 1999 Opel Meriva. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 570 kg more than 1999 Opel Meriva. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Opel Meriva, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 664 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Meriva. (166 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Meriva. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 1999 Opel Meriva 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 | 1999 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5512 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 53 L |
