1973 Vauxhall Firenza vs. 1989 Holden Nova
To start off, 1989 Holden Nova is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Vauxhall Firenza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Vauxhall Firenza would be higher. At 1,759 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Vauxhall Firenza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Holden Nova (81 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1973 Vauxhall Firenza. (77 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1973 Vauxhall Firenza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Holden Nova weights approximately 75 kg more than 1973 Vauxhall Firenza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Vauxhall Firenza 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 Vauxhall Firenza. 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, 1973 Vauxhall Firenza (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Vauxhall Firenza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova. 1989 Holden Nova has automatic transmission and 1973 Vauxhall Firenza has manual transmission. 1973 Vauxhall Firenza will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Holden Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Vauxhall Firenza | 1989 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Holden |
| Model | Firenza | Nova |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1759 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 77 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1015 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2440 mm |
