1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 569 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
