1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 39 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, 1974 Chevrolet Nova (143 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Passat. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 26 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Passat. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Passat. 1974 Chevrolet Nova has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Chevrolet Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Nova | 2013 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4868 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1835 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1487 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2803 mm |
