2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 455 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
