2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1984 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 740 kg more than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. (89 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1984 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
