1968 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,307 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 35 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz E (186 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz E | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 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 | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.7 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
