1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1959 Jeep CJ5
To start off, 1974 Chevrolet Nova is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Jeep CJ5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Jeep CJ5 would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Chevrolet Nova (143 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1959 Jeep CJ5. (62 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1959 Jeep CJ5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 370 kg more than 1959 Jeep CJ5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Jeep CJ5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Jeep CJ5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1974 Chevrolet Nova (340 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Jeep CJ5. (180 Nm @ 1350 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Jeep CJ5. 1974 Chevrolet Nova has automatic transmission and 1959 Jeep CJ5 has manual transmission. 1959 Jeep CJ5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Chevrolet Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Nova | 1959 Jeep CJ5 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Jeep |
| Model | Nova | CJ5 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 3153 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1350 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2060 mm |
