1982 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 410 kg more than 1996 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 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mercedes-Benz S | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 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 |
