1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1984 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1984 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 720 kg more than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. (89 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1984 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | 280 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 61 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2520 mm |
