2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2001 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2001 Vauxhall Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2001 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 330 kg more than 2001 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Vauxhall 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 E (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Vauxhall Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2001 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2620 mm |
