1989 Holden Nova vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
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 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Holden Nova (90 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1989 Holden Nova.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. 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 300 (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Holden Nova | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Nova | 300 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 3430 mm |
