2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 527 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.3 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
