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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 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 972 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 (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
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 | 2987 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2270 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
