1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 33 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850.
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 Volvo 850, 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 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Nova | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Nova | 850 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2670 mm |
