1955 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1989 Holden Nova
To start off, 1989 Holden Nova is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Holden Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Holden Nova (90 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Holden Nova weights approximately 280 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 1989 Holden Nova (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Holden Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | 1989 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Holden |
| Model | Beetle | Nova |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2440 mm |
