1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 1985 Vauxhall Nova
To start off, 1985 Vauxhall Nova is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 993 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Vauxhall Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Datsun 1000 (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1985 Vauxhall Nova. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Datsun 1000 should accelerate faster than 1985 Vauxhall Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Vauxhall Nova weights approximately 115 kg more than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Because 1966 Datsun 1000 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 1966 Datsun 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Vauxhall 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, 1966 Datsun 1000 (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Vauxhall Nova. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1966 Datsun 1000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Vauxhall Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 1985 Vauxhall Nova | |
| Make | Datsun | Vauxhall |
| Model | 1000 | Nova |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2350 mm |
