1997 Chevrolet Astro vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (613 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 430 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 55 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Astro will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (999 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 661 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Astro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Astro | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astro | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 613 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2585 mm |
