2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 22 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (320 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (311 Nm). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
