2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (142 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 75 kg more than 2001 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 52 L |
