1971 Holden Statesman vs. 1989 Holden Nova
To start off, 1989 Holden Nova is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,042 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Holden Statesman (238 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Holden Statesman weights approximately 410 kg more than 1989 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Holden Statesman 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 1971 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Holden Nova, 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, 1971 Holden Statesman (427 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1971 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Holden Statesman | 1989 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Statesman | Nova |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5042 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2440 mm |
