2006 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (198 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK weights approximately 395 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2006 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | GLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1887 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1699 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2756 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 66 L |
