2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 1999 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Astra would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (641 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 553 more horse power than 1999 Opel Astra. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Astra.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 SLR McLaren. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 SLR McLaren (821 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 696 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Astra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1999 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1999 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 1999 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLR McLaren | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 821 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
