1998 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 185 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
