2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Opel Frontera
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Frontera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Frontera 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 316 more horse power than 2003 Opel Frontera. (202 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Frontera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1110 kg more than 2003 Opel Frontera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Opel Frontera 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, 2003 Opel Frontera 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 (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 341 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Frontera. (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Frontera. 2003 Opel Frontera has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Frontera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Opel Frontera | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Frontera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 3165 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2470 mm |
