1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 1989 Holden Nova
To start off, 1989 Holden Nova is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP) has 134 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 581 kg more than 1989 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Holden Nova, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 1989 Holden Nova | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Holden |
Model | 380 | Nova |
Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3818 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 81 HP |
Torque | 305 Nm | 118 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1015 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2440 mm |