1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 174 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 2006 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2006 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | 280 | Astra |
Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2745 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 262 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1386 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2620 mm |