2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1999 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (475 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 387 more horse power than 1999 Opel Astra. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 540 kg more than 1999 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, 1999 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 (630 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 505 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Astra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1999 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1999 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 | 1999 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | CLS | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 475 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 630 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.1 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
