1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 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 5,025 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Chevrolet Nova (130 HP) has 71 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 550 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1981 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (318 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Chevrolet Nova | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Passat |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5025 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 318 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2560 mm |
