2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 940 kg more than 2005 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 R 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 R. 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 R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | R | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2175 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
