1981 Opel Ascona vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 561 kg more than 1981 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (509 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (134 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Opel Ascona | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ascona | SLK |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 509 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1014 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1793 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2431 mm |
