1998 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 195 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 54 L |
