2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (152 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 104 kg more than 2001 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 53 L |
