2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (56 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 687 kg more than 1991 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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 E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (105 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
