1968 Mercedes-Benz SE vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. (169 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 75 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra.
Because 1968 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. 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 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SE | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1385 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 | 65 L | 52 L |
