2009 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 485 kg more than 1981 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 442 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1981 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1981 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | S | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2520 mm |
