1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2007 Opel Astra. (124 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2007 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 727 kg more than 2007 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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 E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
