1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 170 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (151 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Nova | 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Nova | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4299 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |
