1997 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 505 kg more than 2007 Opel Astra.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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 S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
