1989 Holden Nova vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 16 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 1032 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Holden Nova | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Nova | SLK |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2052 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
