2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 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 (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 514 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 560 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 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, 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 SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 630 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLR McLaren | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 618 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 780 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 332 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 14.7 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 19.6 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 18.1 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 97 L | 52 L |
