1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 (123 HP @ 4350 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 (250 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 300 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 127 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 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |
