1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2009 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 161 kg more than 2009 Nissan Frontier.
Because 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 Nissan Frontier 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 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2009 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Nova | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3200 mm |
