1996 Holden Nova vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Holden Nova is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1996 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 470 kg more than 1996 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Holden Nova | 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Nova | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2950 mm |
