1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1986 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1986 Vauxhall Astra. (53 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1986 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 700 kg more than 1986 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Vauxhall Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Vauxhall Astra. (84 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1986 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | 300 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2530 mm |
