2003 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1127 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (459 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | GL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 2425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.5 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.6 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 100 L |
