1968 Mercedes-Benz SE vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 43 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE (169 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2011 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 62 kg more than 2011 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 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, 2011 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SE | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
