2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 635 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 S 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 S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 558 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2004 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1985 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 52 L |
