2006 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (295 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 799 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 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 S (385 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1364 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 2029 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 90 L |
