1977 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 25 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1977 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1977 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 449 kg more than 1977 Chevrolet Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Chevrolet Nova. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Chevrolet Nova | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Nova | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4091 cc | 4016 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3070 mm |
