1996 Opel Astra vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (511 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 422 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 690 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 575 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2013 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 511 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.7 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4887 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2071 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2874 mm |
