1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2008 Toyota Camry

To start off, 2008 Toyota Camry 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 Toyota Camry (155 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Camry should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Camry weights approximately 1091 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 Toyota Camry, 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Camry. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Camry.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Chevrolet Nova 2008 Toyota Camry
Make Chevrolet Toyota
Model Nova Camry
Year Released 1978 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4093 cc 2362 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 108 HP 155 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 258 Nm 214 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 2581 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 4900 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2730 mm