2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (144 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 350 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 CLS 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 CLS. 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 CLS (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | CLS | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.1 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
