1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 862 kg more than 2001 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2001 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2001 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Astra |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
