1999 Holden Astra vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Holden Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1999 Holden Astra.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Holden Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Holden Astra | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | 280 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2940 mm |
