1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2009 Saturn Aura
To start off, 2009 Saturn Aura 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 Saturn Aura (167 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Aura 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 Saturn Aura.
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, 2009 Saturn Aura, 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 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Aura. (160 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Aura.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2009 Saturn Aura | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Nova | Aura |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2382 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 160 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 | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2860 mm |
