2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2003 Opel Frontera
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Frontera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Frontera would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2003 Opel Frontera. (202 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Frontera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 170 kg more than 2003 Opel Frontera. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Frontera 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Frontera. (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Frontera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2003 Opel Frontera | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | CLS | Frontera |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4663 cc | 3165 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 402 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 600 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1882 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1417 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2875 mm | 2470 mm |
