1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1997 Mercury Mystique
To start off, 1997 Mercury Mystique is newer by 29 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, 1997 Mercury Mystique (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury Mystique should accelerate faster than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 177 kg more than 1997 Mercury Mystique.
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, 1997 Mercury Mystique, 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 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercury Mystique. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercury Mystique. 1997 Mercury Mystique 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. 1997 Mercury Mystique will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Chevrolet Nova | 1997 Mercury Mystique | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercury |
| Model | Nova | Mystique |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5025 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 318 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
