2008 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 414 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (96 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 800 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 S 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 S. 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 S (830 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 690 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.3 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |
