2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1995 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 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 154 more horse power than 1995 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1995 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 121 kg more than 1995 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, 1995 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 1995 Opel Astra. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Opel Astra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1995 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1995 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 | 1995 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
