1996 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano (134 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1680 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Viano (310 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | Viano |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3210 mm |
