2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2002 Holden Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Holden Astra would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2002 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2002 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 176 kg more than 2002 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Holden 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 E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 2002 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Holden |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2610 mm |
