2004 MG ZS vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 MG ZS 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 MG ZS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 MG ZS (176 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 MG ZS should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 MG ZS weights approximately 195 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 MG ZS (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 MG ZS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 MG ZS | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | MG | Opel |
| Model | ZS | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 11.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
