1959 Alpine A 106 vs. 1997 Holden Nova
To start off, 1997 Holden Nova is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Alpine A 106. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Alpine A 106 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Holden Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Nova (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1959 Alpine A 106. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1959 Alpine A 106. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Holden Nova weights approximately 510 kg more than 1959 Alpine A 106. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Alpine A 106 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 1959 Alpine A 106. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Holden Nova (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Alpine A 106. (57 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Holden Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Alpine A 106. 1997 Holden Nova has automatic transmission and 1959 Alpine A 106 has manual transmission. 1959 Alpine A 106 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Holden Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Alpine A 106 | 1997 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Alpine | Holden |
| Model | A 106 | Nova |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 844 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2470 mm |
