1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. Both 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK and 2012 Opel Astra are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (239 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 123 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 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, 2012 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
