1997 Mercury MC4 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercury MC4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercury MC4 would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercury MC4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercury MC4 (202 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2012 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury MC4 should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Astra.
Because 1997 Mercury MC4 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 Mercury MC4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Mercury MC4 (387 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Astra. (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercury MC4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercury MC4 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercury | Opel |
Model | MC4 | Astra |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 202 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 387 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |