2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1989 Holden Nova
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 23 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 312 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 870 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 465 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1989 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Holden |
| Model | CLS | Nova |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4663 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 402 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 600 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1882 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1417 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2875 mm | 2440 mm |
