2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 9 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 5,460 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | CLS | Astra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5460 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
