1991 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra.

Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (168 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1991 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1991 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1991 Opel Astra 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Opel Mercedes-Benz
Model Astra C
Year Released 1991 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1686 cc 2143 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 82 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 3000 RPM
Torque 168 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 1400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 22.0:1 16.2:1
Fuel Type Diesel Diesel
Top Speed 164 km/hour 218 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4060 mm 4606 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1459 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 L 66 L