2003 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (156 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 9.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 66 L |
