1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 52 L |
