1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,198 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 780 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 (310 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 300 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3198 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2620 mm |
