1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1980 Renault 12
To start off, 1980 Renault 12 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Nova 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 @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 590 kg more than 1980 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Renault 12, 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, 1978 Chevrolet Nova (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 1980 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Nova | 12 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
