1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 44 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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 67 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 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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu 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. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Chevrolet Nova | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Nova | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5025 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 318 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1557 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2852 mm |
