1976 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 385 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1976 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 1976 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1976 Chevrolet Nova (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1976 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chevrolet Nova | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2512 mm |
