2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (96 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 10 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
