2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 441 more horse power than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. (53 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1120 kg more than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 615 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. (85 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1989 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2530 mm |
