2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 490 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 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, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (341 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 341 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
