1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2003 Fiat Barchetta
To start off, 2003 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 25 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, 2003 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 428 kg more than 2003 Fiat Barchetta.
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, 2003 Fiat Barchetta, 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 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2003 Fiat Barchetta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | Nova | Barchetta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1062 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2280 mm |
