2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (377 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 537 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 CLS 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 CLS. 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 CLS (392 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | CLS | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 377 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 392 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
