1992 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mercedes-Benz S (165 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 330 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 1992 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1992 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1992 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mercedes-Benz S | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
