1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 27 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 242 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (203 Nm). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Nova | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2650 mm |
