2012 Opel Astra vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 378 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Opel Astra | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | A |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 54 L |
