1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 15 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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2011 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 618 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 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 (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Astra. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2011 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2011 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 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | S | Astra |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 317 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 470 Nm | 262 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1386 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2030 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |