1968 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2005 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2005 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 180 kg more than 2005 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Vauxhall Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
