1997 Chevrolet Astro vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 8 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP) has 85 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 340 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Astro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Astro | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astro | R |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 2235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3220 mm |
