1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Holden Astra
To start off, 2004 Holden Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2004 Holden Astra. (124 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 282 kg more than 2004 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Holden 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Holden Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2004 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Holden |
| Model | 280 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |
