2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1996 Holden Nova
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 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), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1996 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 805 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 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1996 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Holden |
| Model | S | Nova |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2470 mm |
