2001 Holden Astra vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Holden Astra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2001 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 460 kg more than 2001 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Holden Astra | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2870 mm |
