1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 vs. 2003 Holden Astra
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,525 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra. 2003 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 | 2003 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Holden |
| Model | 250 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2525 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2610 mm |
