2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,908 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 227 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1908 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
