2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. Both 2008 Mercedes-Benz C and 2003 Opel Astra are equipped with a 1,796 cc engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 370 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
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, 2003 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 (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 11.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 53 L |
