1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Astra (437 HP @ 7350 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. (245 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 458 kg more than 2001 Opel Astra.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Opel Astra (531 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. (399 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 500 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 3998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 245 HP | 437 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 7350 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1608 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
