1962 Mercedes-Benz SE vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,195 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 250 kg more than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. 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 (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SE | Astra |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2011 |
| 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 | 118 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 52 L |
