1982 Vauxhall Nova vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Vauxhall Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Vauxhall Nova would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (254 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1982 Vauxhall Nova. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1982 Vauxhall Nova.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Vauxhall 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 517 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Vauxhall Nova. (103 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Vauxhall Nova. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1982 Vauxhall Nova has manual transmission. 1982 Vauxhall Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Vauxhall Nova | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Nova | S |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 3165 mm |
