1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara (127 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 164 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 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Suzuki |
| Model | Nova | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1695 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2640 mm |
