2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 419 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1415 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 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 391 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1684 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
