1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 15 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 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 3 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 472 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. 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, 1989 Mazda 323, 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 (340 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 1974 Chevrolet Nova has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 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 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | 323 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2510 mm |
