2009 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 70 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 R (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 369 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | R | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
