1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (195 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 739 kg more than 1991 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (358 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (135 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 1991 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1991 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 300 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 358 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1016 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 75 L |
