1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (138 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. (45 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 weights approximately 12 kg more than 2011 Opel Astra.
Because 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 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 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. 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, 2011 Opel Astra (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180. (104 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 180 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1767 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 52 L |
