2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 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 350 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1445 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 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 381 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
