2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1980 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 2,147 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 635 kg more than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (102 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1980 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2147 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
