1990 Chevrolet Astro vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (343 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1990 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1990 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 219 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 1990 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Chevrolet Astro will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (480 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Chevrolet Astro. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Chevrolet Astro. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1990 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1990 Chevrolet Astro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Chevrolet Astro | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astro | E |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 343 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1676 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2840 mm |
