2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (139 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 265 kg more than 2008 Saturn 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, 2008 Saturn 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 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 46 L |
