2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (617 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 532 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 488 kg more than 1998 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 SLR McLaren 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 SLR McLaren. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 595 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLR McLaren | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 617 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 780 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 6.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1768 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
