2005 Holden Astra vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Holden Astra is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2005 Holden Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 82 kg more than 2005 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Holden Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Holden Astra | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astra | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
