2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 2 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 305 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel 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 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1684 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
