1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima 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 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 28 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
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 Kia Optima, 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 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Chevrolet | Kia |
Model | Nova | Optima |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
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 | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 258 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1462 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2797 mm |