1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 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 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. (109 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 182 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40.
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 Volvo S40, 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 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Chevrolet Nova | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Nova | S40 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2560 mm |
