1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2008 Saturn Vue
To start off, 2008 Saturn Vue is newer by 30 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, 2008 Saturn Vue (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Vue should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Vue weights approximately 245 kg more than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Saturn Vue, 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Vue. (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Vue.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2008 Saturn Vue | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Nova | Vue |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
