2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 160 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 52 L |
