2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 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 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 404 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 819 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 673 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SL | Astra |
Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5506 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 800 Nm | 127 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 77.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 73.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 2009 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |