2008 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3498 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 90 L |
