1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Chevrolet Nova (109 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 572 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Chevrolet Nova 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 1968 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1968 Chevrolet Nova (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Chevrolet Nova | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
