1997 Mercury Mystique vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercury Mystique. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercury Mystique would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercury Mystique is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercury Mystique (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury Mystique should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 52 kg more than 1997 Mercury Mystique.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2008 Opel Astra (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercury Mystique. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercury Mystique. 1997 Mercury Mystique has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercury Mystique will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercury Mystique | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercury | Opel |
| Model | Mystique | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1684 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1313 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
