2004 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Opel Astra would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 395 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 236 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 408 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (241 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS has automatic transmission and 2004 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | SLS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1979 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 317 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 3.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1938 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 85 L |
