1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 350 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (143 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 475 kg more than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 460 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (340 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Nova | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Nova | SL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 2025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |
