1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2000 Saturn L
To start off, 2000 Saturn L is newer by 22 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, 2000 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 152 kg more than 2000 Saturn L.
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, 2000 Saturn L, 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Saturn L. (193 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2000 Saturn L | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Nova | L |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
