1961 Mercedes-Benz SE vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,193 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 242 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SE | Astra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2193 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
