1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 37 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 124 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Nova | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4299 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2703 mm |
