1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2008 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 40 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. (165 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 300 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.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. (388 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Chevrolet Nova | 2008 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Nova | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2770 mm |
