1996 Mercury Grand Marquis vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis (208 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (198 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 290 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 Mercury Grand Marquis. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercury | Opel |
| Model | Grand Marquis | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4600 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5400 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1800 mm |
