2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1982 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (115 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 168 kg more than 1982 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Opel Ascona, 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 SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (150 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1982 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1072 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2600 mm |
