1973 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 38 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 43 more horse power than 2011 Opel Astra. (139 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 15 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2011 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 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Astra. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
