1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 1999 Holden Nova
To start off, 1999 Holden Nova is newer by 20 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 @ 5500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1999 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1999 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 506 kg more than 1999 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, 1999 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 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 1999 Holden Nova | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Holden |
Model | 380 | Nova |
Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3818 cc | 1587 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 105 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2470 mm |