1976 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 33 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 201 kg more than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chevrolet Nova | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Nova | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2770 mm |
