1976 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 36 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 51 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.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Chevrolet Nova | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Nova | Passat |
Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 258 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1541 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2712 mm |