1986 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2009 Opel Astra. (139 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 65 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Astra. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1625 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 |
