1994 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1994 Opel Astra. (81 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1994 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1755 kg more than 1994 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Opel Astra. (114 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Opel Astra | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | A |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
