1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 1998 Dodge Ram is newer by 20 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 5,208 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (223 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 610 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 1998 Dodge Ram 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, 1998 Dodge Ram 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (399 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Nova | Ram |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 5208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 399 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 2100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2790 mm |
