1998 Opel Astra vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 15 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (397 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 312 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 505 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.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (601 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 413 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2013 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | E |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 397 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 601 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4698 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2015 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1398 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
