1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 60 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (201 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2006 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
