1966 Mercedes-Benz 250 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1966 Mercedes-Benz 250. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1966 Mercedes-Benz 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 25 kg more than 1966 Mercedes-Benz 250. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1966 Mercedes-Benz 250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mercedes-Benz 250. (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mercedes-Benz 250.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Mercedes-Benz 250 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 250 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 52 L |
