1991 Opel Astra vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 22 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 545 kg more than 1991 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Opel Astra | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | SLK |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2430 mm |
