1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 35 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |
