1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 10 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 670 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 14.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
