2004 Holden Astra vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Holden Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2004 Holden Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 455 kg more than 2004 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Holden 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Holden Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Holden Astra. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2004 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Holden Astra | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
