2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 349 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (144 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 600 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 497 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.5 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
