1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 1979 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 (296 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1979 Vauxhall Astra.
Because 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 (410 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 has automatic transmission and 1979 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1979 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 1979 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | 420 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
