1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 43 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. (109 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 2 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Chevrolet Nova | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2703 mm |
