2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 15 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (301 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra. 2004 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | A | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.4 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 52 L |
