1996 Opel Astra vs. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C
To start off, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C is newer by 16 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 3,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 McLaren MP4-12C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C (592 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 518 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C weights approximately 284 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 2012 McLaren MP4-12C 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 2012 McLaren MP4-12C. 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, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C (600 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 472 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C 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. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2012 McLaren MP4-12C | |
| Make | Opel | McLaren |
| Model | Astra | MP4-12C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 592 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1199 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
