1989 Holden Nova vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Holden Nova would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 740 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 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1989 Holden Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Holden Nova | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Nova | SL |
Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2520 mm |