1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR is newer by 1 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 6,898 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (604 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 515 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR weights approximately 260 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (770 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 659 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | CLK GTR | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 6898 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 770 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
