2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2011 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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, 2011 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 SLK (359 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Astra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2011 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2011 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
