1976 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS 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 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 210 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 Lexus IS (503 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chevrolet Nova | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Nova | IS |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 4969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 416 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 503 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2740 mm |
