1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (5 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 (94 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 (158 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 250 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 16.8 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2640 mm |
