1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 237 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
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 Opel Astra, 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 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Nova | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Nova | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4299 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2500 mm |
