2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 390 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 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | C | Astra |
Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 268 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2620 mm |