2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1985 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1985 Vauxhall Astra. (53 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1985 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 2000 kg more than 1985 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Vauxhall Astra. (84 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Vauxhall Astra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1985 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1985 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1985 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | C | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2530 mm |
