1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 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 9 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 435 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1978 Chevrolet Nova (258 Nm) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (245 Nm). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2270 mm |
