1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 762 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 471 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
