2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1983 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 546 more horse power than 1983 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 760 kg more than 1983 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 913 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Vauxhall Astra. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1983 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1983 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1983 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5982 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 605 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 1001 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
