1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 28 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 172 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat, 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 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |
