1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. (165 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 214 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (388 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Chevrolet Nova | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Golf |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2578 mm |
