1959 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,195 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220. (115 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 240 kg more than 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 220 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 52 L |
