2003 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 185 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 12.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 54 L |
