1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (125 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2004 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |
