1964 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2007 Opel Astra. (118 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 93 kg more than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1964 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 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra, 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, 2007 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2306 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
