2007 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 11 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 220 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz B 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz B. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mercedes-Benz B | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | B | Astra |
Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 77.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2620 mm |