1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. (131 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 46 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. 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, 2009 Opel Astra (262 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. (198 Nm). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 190 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
