2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 235 kg more than 1996 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 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SLK | Astra |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 355 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 510 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1005 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |