1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1995 Opel Astra
To start off, 1995 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1995 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1995 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1995 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Opel Astra. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1995 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2620 mm |
