1996 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (136 HP @ 2800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Opel Astra | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Astra | C |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2143 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 136 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Torque | 125 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4606 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1459 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |