1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2006 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 350 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 350. 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2006 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 350 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |
