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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (142 HP @ 5600 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 75 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (204 Nm @ 4000 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 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2198 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 53 L |
