1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 90 kg more than 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
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, 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (250 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Nova | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |
