1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Vauxhall Nova

To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Vauxhall Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Vauxhall Nova would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1070 kg more than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Vauxhall 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Vauxhall Nova has manual transmission. 1989 Vauxhall Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 1989 Vauxhall Nova
Make Mercedes-Benz Vauxhall
Model SL Nova
Year Released 1998 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2799 cc 993 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 204 HP 44 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 69 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2600 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1810 kg 740 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1550 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2350 mm