1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 26 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, 2004 Ford Focus (130 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 308 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus.
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, 2004 Ford Focus, 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) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (183 Nm). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Nova | Focus |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2840 mm |
