2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1986 Holden Astra
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Holden Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1986 Holden Astra. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 825 kg more than 1986 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Astra. (124 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 1986 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Holden |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2420 mm |
