1980 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 445 kg more than 1997 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 S (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1997 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1997 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
