1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1989 Chevrolet Suburban
To start off, 1989 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 11 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 5,732 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chevrolet Suburban (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 810 kg more than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Chevrolet Suburban 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, 1989 Chevrolet Suburban (407 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1989 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 1989 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Nova | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 5732 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 2300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3300 mm |
