1999 Holden Astra vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (165 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1999 Holden Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 374 kg more than 1999 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Holden Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Holden Astra | 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | S |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2950 mm |
