1973 Ford Cortina vs. 1990 Holden Nova
To start off, 1990 Holden Nova is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Holden Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Holden Nova (81 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1973 Ford Cortina. (56 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Ford Cortina weights approximately 25 kg more than 1990 Holden Nova.
Because 1973 Ford Cortina 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 1973 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1990 Holden Nova (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Holden Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ford Cortina | 1990 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Cortina | Nova |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1015 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2440 mm |
