1996 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 15 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 500 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Opel Astra | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Astra | C |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 111 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1505 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4592 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1445 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2761 mm |