1991 Opel Astra vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra.

Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1991 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1991 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1991 Opel Astra 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Opel Mercedes-Benz
Model Astra SL
Year Released 1991 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1388 cc 2996 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 82 HP 228 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 113 Nm 300 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 2500 RPM
Top Speed 171 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4060 mm 4582 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1298 mm
Wheelbase Size 2610 mm 2560 mm