1996 Holden Nova vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Holden Nova would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1996 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 780 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 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, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Holden Nova. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1996 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:

1996 Holden Nova 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Holden Mercedes-Benz
Model Nova SL
Year Released 1996 2001
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1586 cc 4966 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 105 HP 302 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 135 Nm 460 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 2700 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1065 kg 1845 kg
Vehicle Length 4100 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2570 mm