1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 (238 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 58 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 300 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
