1977 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1981 Lotus Esprit is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 4,091 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1977 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1977 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 370 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
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, 1977 Chevrolet Nova (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1977 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Chevrolet Nova | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Nova | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4091 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2440 mm |
