1973 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 225 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 S 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 S. 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 S (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
