2000 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 420 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C (315 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 77.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2620 mm |
