1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1996 Lincoln Continental
To start off, 1996 Lincoln Continental is newer by 22 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lincoln Continental (218 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 260 kg more than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. 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, 1996 Lincoln Continental, 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, 1996 Lincoln Continental (372 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Nova | 1996 Lincoln Continental | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lincoln |
| Model | Nova | Continental |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2780 mm |
