1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 (238 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 40 kg more than 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1963 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 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 (271 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 300 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2004 |
| 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 | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 52 L |
