2007 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 2650 RPM) has 295 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (174 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 545 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (701 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 450 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 2650 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 701 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 12.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.4 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
