2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1991 Opel Astra

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 301 kg more than 1991 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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 E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1991 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1991 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mercedes-Benz E 1991 Opel Astra
Make Mercedes-Benz Opel
Model E Astra
Year Released 2009 1991
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3498 cc 1389 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 268 HP 82 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 113 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.7:1 9.4:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 165 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1326 kg 1025 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4280 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1830 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2450 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 52 L