2008 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1450 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.8 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
