2003 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.9 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.9 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 93 L |
