1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 34 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, 1968 Chevrolet Nova (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 139 kg more than 1968 Chevrolet Nova.
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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Chevrolet Nova | 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Nova | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5025 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 318 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1629 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2640 mm |
