2001 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 125 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2740 mm |
