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 153 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (115 HP @ 5200 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 180 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 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (169 Nm @ 2600 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 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 75 L |
