1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2001 Holden Astra
To start off, 2001 Holden Astra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2001 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2001 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 325 kg more than 2001 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2001 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Holden |
| Model | 280 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2610 mm |
