1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 289 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 855 kg more than 2005 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 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2610 mm |
