2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 1 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (125 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 727 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 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.6 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
