1968 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 220. (106 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 63 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 220. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 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 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 220. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 220. 2009 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1968 Mercedes-Benz 220 has manual transmission. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 220 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz 220 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 220 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 52 L |
