1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 640 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SL | Astra |
Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1388 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 461 Nm | 127 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80.6 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |