1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Chevrolet Nova (165 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 156 kg more than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Chevrolet Nova | 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Nova | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |
