1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (225 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2002 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 441 kg more than 2002 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 450 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 450. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 450 (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Astra. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2002 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2002 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 450 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2620 mm |
