1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1982 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1982 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1982 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1982 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 453 kg more than 1982 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Vauxhall 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, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 (275 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1982 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | 300 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 61 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1293 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
