1986 Holden Astra vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Holden Astra would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1986 Holden Astra. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 840 kg more than 1986 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (365 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Astra. (124 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Astra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1986 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 1986 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Astra | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | CLS |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2860 mm |
