2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 396 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 799 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 557 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (143 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 1181 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.5 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
