2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2000 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Opel Astra would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 2000 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 212 kg more than 2000 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 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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 SLK (500 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2000 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1328 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
