1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (148 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 33 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 2008 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 230 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
