1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 300 (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | 300 | Astra |
Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1388 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 87 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 77.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |