2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,224 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (144 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 355 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (479 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3224 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 479 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
