2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 525 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
