2005 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 925 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 ML (347 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | ML | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2185 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 52 L |
