2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 weights approximately 724 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 E500 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 E500. 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 E500 (441 Nm) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E500 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1729 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
