1985 Holden Barina vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Holden Barina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Holden Barina would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 323 more horse power than 1985 Holden Barina. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Holden Barina.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Holden Barina, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 445 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Holden Barina. (85 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Holden Barina. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1985 Holden Barina has manual transmission. 1985 Holden Barina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Holden Barina | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Barina | SL |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2250 mm | 2570 mm |
