1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 33 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 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (198 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 83 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra.
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, 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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | 280 | Astra |
Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2745 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 198 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 238 Nm | 262 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 52 L |