1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1986 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1986 Holden Commodore is newer by 8 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, 1986 Holden Commodore (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 255 kg more than 1986 Holden Commodore.
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, 1986 Holden Commodore (296 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1986 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 1986 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Holden |
| Model | Nova | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2670 mm |
