2003 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 725 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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 E (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Opel Astra | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Astra | E |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2143 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 130 Nm | 500 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 16.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.5 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1825 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 80 L |