2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (155 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 35 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (230 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 52 L |
