2008 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 3,995 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (302 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1035 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 ML (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 515 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | ML | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3995 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 6.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2315 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2620 mm |
