1976 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 32 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 161 kg more than 2008 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, 1976 Chevrolet Nova (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1976 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chevrolet Nova | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
