1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 1980 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1980 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 741 kg more than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (102 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 1980 Vauxhall Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
Model | 380 | Astra |
Year Released | 1979 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3818 cc | 1297 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 855 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 |