1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2002 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 325 kg more than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2620 mm |
