1994 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 650 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 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 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1110 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
