2006 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 3 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), 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1030 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 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (441 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 316 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2006 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | R | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2220 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
