1990 Chevrolet Astro vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 22 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 335 more horse power than 1990 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1990 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 47 kg more than 1990 Chevrolet Astro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 361 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Chevrolet Astro. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Chevrolet Astro. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Chevrolet Astro | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astro | E |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1942 kg |
