1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (613 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 505 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 460 kg more than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (999 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 741 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Nova | SL |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 613 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2585 mm |
