1956 Mercury Montclair vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Mercury Montclair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Mercury Montclair would be higher. At 5,114 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Mercury Montclair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Mercury Montclair (258 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Mercury Montclair should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra.
Because 1956 Mercury Montclair 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 1956 Mercury Montclair. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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. 1956 Mercury Montclair has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1956 Mercury Montclair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Mercury Montclair | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercury | Opel |
| Model | Montclair | Astra |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5114 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 258 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2620 mm |
