1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2002 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (228 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. (124 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 691 kg more than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2002 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 2002 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Vauxhall Astra | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
Model | S | Astra |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1796 cc |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 124 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 1205 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |