2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. Both 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK and 2007 Opel Astra are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (237 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 108 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| 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 | 161 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
