1998 Opel Astra vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz M
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M 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 M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M (397 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 323 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz M weights approximately 1168 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 M is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M will offer significantly more control. 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 M (601 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 471 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz M 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 M | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | M |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 397 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 601 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 2288 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4804 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2915 mm |
