2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1990 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 440 more horse power than 1990 Vauxhall Astra. (53 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1990 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1305 kg more than 1990 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 717 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Vauxhall Astra. (84 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Vauxhall Astra. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1990 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1990 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1990 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2530 mm |
