1989 Holden Nova vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 22 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 780 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Holden Nova | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Nova | CLS |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2875 mm |
