2006 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (302 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1200 kg more than 2001 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 GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm) has 530 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (170 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 2001 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2001 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | GL | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2550 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 58 L |
