2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 345 more horse power than 2012 Opel Astra. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 528 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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 (700 Nm) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Astra. (320 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1921 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
