1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1989 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. (56 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 345 kg more than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. (105 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1989 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1015 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2530 mm |
