2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 37 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 3250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 270 kg more than 2004 Opel 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, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
