2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 404 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 795 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 675 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 2003 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SL | Astra |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1363 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 800 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 13.7 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 | 2025 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1700 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |