2009 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1997 Opel Astra

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 960 kg more than 1997 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 ML (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1997 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1997 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 1997 Opel Astra
Make Mercedes-Benz Opel
Model ML Astra
Year Released 2009 1997
Body Type SUV Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2987 cc 1389 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 221 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 510 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 17.7:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 2110 kg 1150 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4250 mm
Vehicle Width 2130 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1820 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2920 mm 2620 mm