2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 11 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 35 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.
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, 1998 Opel Astra (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 44 L |
