2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 320 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 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 52 L |
