1981 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 175 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | S | Astra |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |