1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1996 Jaguar XK8
To start off, 1996 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 28 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, 1996 Jaguar XK8 (291 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 163 kg more than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Jaguar XK8 (393 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. (318 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. 1996 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 1968 Chevrolet Nova has manual transmission. 1968 Chevrolet Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Jaguar XK8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Chevrolet Nova | 1996 Jaguar XK8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Jaguar |
| Model | Nova | XK8 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5025 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 318 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |
