2005 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1140 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 R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 R (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | R | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
