1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1991 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 1991 Chrysler Viper is newer by 13 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 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1991 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 281 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 100 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.
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, 1991 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 363 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1991 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 1991 Chrysler Viper | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Nova | Viper |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 7986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 621 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
