2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2004 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2004 Vauxhall 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 (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. (79 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 385 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. (173 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2004 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2004 Vauxhall Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
Model | E | Astra |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1686 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 173 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1335 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2620 mm |