2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1989 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. (53 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 496 kg more than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. (85 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1989 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | A | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2530 mm |
