1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 20 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Chevrolet Nova (165 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 520 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. 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, 1988 Volvo 480, 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 (388 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Chevrolet Nova | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Nova | 480 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2510 mm |
