1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2009 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram is newer by 31 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (390 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 282 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram weights approximately 201 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 2009 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Dodge Ram (552 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2009 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Nova | Ram |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 5654 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 390 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 552 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3560 mm |
