2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 370 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 E 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 E. 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 E (315 Nm) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (171 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
