1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1978 Chevrolet Nova is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chevrolet Nova (108 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 830 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. 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, 1978 Chevrolet Nova (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Nova | Elite |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2240 mm |
