1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1986 Dodge Charger
To start off, 1986 Dodge Charger is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 4,299 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Chevrolet Nova (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1986 Dodge Charger. (62 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1986 Dodge Charger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 485 kg more than 1986 Dodge Charger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Dodge Charger, 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, 1974 Chevrolet Nova (272 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Dodge Charger. (117 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Dodge Charger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Nova | 1986 Dodge Charger | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Nova | Charger |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4299 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2460 mm |
