1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 65 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |
