1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2009 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2009 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner (236 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 158 kg more than 2009 Toyota 4Runner.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Toyota 4Runner (361 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2009 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Toyota |
| Model | Nova | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2800 mm |
