1996 Opel Astra vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 370 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.5 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 66 L |
