2006 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 346 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (600 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1711 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 66 L |
