2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Holden Nova
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Holden Nova would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 403 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 901 kg more than 1989 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 565 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (135 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1989 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Holden |
| Model | SL | Nova |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1921 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2440 mm |
