2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
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, 2005 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 (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (173 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
