1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 496 kg more than 2008 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 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 S (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1806 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 52 L |
