2001 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (168 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 448 kg more than 2001 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (170 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2001 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2001 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Astra | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | E |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1798 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 80 L |
