2004 Opel Astra vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 60 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |
