1986 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2010 Opel Astra
To start off, 2010 Opel Astra is newer by 24 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, 2010 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 174 kg more than 2010 Opel Astra.
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, 2010 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, 2010 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | 2010 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
