1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1989 Holden Nova
To start off, 1989 Holden Nova is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (146 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III weights approximately 165 kg more than 1989 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III 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 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. 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, 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (166 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1989 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Holden |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | Nova |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1015 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2440 mm |
