2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 287 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 52 L |
