1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 13 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. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2009 Opel Astra. (239 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 447 kg more than 2009 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 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 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Astra. (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Astra. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2009 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 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SL | Astra |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 317 HP | 239 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 471 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |