1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1684 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
