2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 715 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 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, 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 E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
