1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2012 Kia Rio

To start off, 2012 Kia Rio 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 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 397 kg more than 2012 Kia Rio.

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 Kia Rio, 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 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Rio. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Rio. 2012 Kia Rio 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 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1968 Chevrolet Nova 2012 Kia Rio
Make Chevrolet Kia
Model Nova Rio
Year Released 1968 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5025 cc 1600 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 130 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 318 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 4850 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1093 kg
Vehicle Length 4820 mm 4366 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1455 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2570 mm