2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (507 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 422 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 443 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | CLS | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 507 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 44 L |
