1999 Opel Astra vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1999 Opel Astra. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 460 kg more than 1999 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Astra. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1999 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1999 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Opel Astra | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | E |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
