1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2011 Chevrolet Equinox
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 33 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, 2011 Chevrolet Equinox (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 227 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, 2011 Chevrolet Equinox, 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Chevrolet Equinox.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2011 Chevrolet Equinox | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Nova | Equinox |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1717 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2858 mm |
