2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 2 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), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 455 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 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, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 52 L |
