2006 Opel Astra vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 185 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (151 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2006 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | SLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
