2006 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 593 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4965 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1891 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 52 L |
