1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 40 kg more than 2011 Opel Astra.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Astra. (176 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 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 | 1270 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
