1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | 280 | Astra |
Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2744 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 182 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 238 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |