1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 (104 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 (164 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 200 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
