1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 700 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.5 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.4 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 52 L |
