1956 Jensen 541 vs. 1990 Holden Nova
To start off, 1990 Holden Nova is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Jensen 541. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Jensen 541 would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Jensen 541 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Jensen 541 (123 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1990 Holden Nova. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Jensen 541 should accelerate faster than 1990 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Jensen 541 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1990 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Jensen 541 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 1956 Jensen 541. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1956 Jensen 541 (265 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1956 Jensen 541 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Holden Nova. 1990 Holden Nova has automatic transmission and 1956 Jensen 541 has manual transmission. 1956 Jensen 541 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Holden Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Jensen 541 | 1990 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Jensen | Holden |
| Model | 541 | Nova |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1015 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2440 mm |
