2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
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, 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 SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2003 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SLK | Astra |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 82 HP |
Torque | 240 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 15.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |