2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 740 kg more than 2003 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 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 231 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 | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
