1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 would be higher. At 6,329 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2009 Opel Astra. (139 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 weights approximately 1145 kg more than 2009 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 600 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 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 600 (500 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Astra. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 600 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6329 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2770 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6250 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3910 mm | 2620 mm |
