1999 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 374 kg more than 2012 Opel Astra.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
