1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 28 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2007 Opel Astra. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2007 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2007 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2620 mm |
