2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 371 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 525 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 530 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 52 L |
