1990 Holden Nova vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Holden Nova would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP) has 388 more horse power than 1990 Holden Nova. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1990 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 940 kg more than 1990 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 582 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Holden Nova. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1990 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1990 Holden Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Holden Nova | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Nova | SL |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 469 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
