1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 34 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, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan (283 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 556 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, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan, 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, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Nova | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 2046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5151 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1999 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3078 mm |
