2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1989 Holden Nova
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 19 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 661 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova. 1989 Holden Nova has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2008 Ford S-Max will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Holden Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1989 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | S-Max | Nova |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2440 mm |
