1997 Chevrolet Astro vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (241 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 55 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1997 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1997 Chevrolet Astro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Astro | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astro | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2970 mm |
