1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1996 Mazda 626
To start off, 1996 Mazda 626 is newer by 18 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 19 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 300 kg more than 1996 Mazda 626. 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, 1996 Mazda 626, 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 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | 626 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |
