2003 Holden Astra vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Holden Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 43 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Astra | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2570 mm |
