2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 4 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 2,683 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 415 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | CLK | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2683 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
