1998 Holden Nova vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Holden Nova would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Holden Nova (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (94 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 345 kg more than 1998 Holden Nova.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (271 Nm) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Holden Nova. (135 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Holden Nova. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1998 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1998 Holden Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Holden Nova | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Nova | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
