1990 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 570 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SL | Astra |
Year Released | 1990 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 267 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |