2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1987 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 1987 Vauxhall Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1987 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1987 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, 1987 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 (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Vauxhall Astra. (180 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Vauxhall Astra. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1987 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1987 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1987 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | E | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2530 mm |
