2003 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 105 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Mercedes-Benz C (315 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 52 L |
