1948 Buick 40 vs. 1978 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 1978 Chevrolet Nova is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Buick 40 would be higher. At 5,249 cc (8 cylinders), 1948 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Buick 40 (142 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Buick 40 weights approximately 358 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Buick 40 | 1978 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
| Model | 40 | Nova |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5249 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1490 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2830 mm |
