2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
