2009 Saturn Astra vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Saturn Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Saturn Astra would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2009 Saturn Astra. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2009 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 195 kg more than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Saturn Astra | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Saturn | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 12.0 : 1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.4 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 10.5 L/100km |
