1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 38 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 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (143 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 89 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (340 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Nova | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2712 mm |
