1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 490 kg more than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Nova | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |
