2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 532 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 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 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 S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2620 mm |
