1978 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2013 GMC Terrain
To start off, 2013 GMC Terrain is newer by 35 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, 2013 GMC Terrain (180 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 GMC Terrain should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 GMC Terrain weights approximately 274 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, 2013 GMC Terrain, 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 2013 GMC Terrain. (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 GMC Terrain.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Nova | 2013 GMC Terrain | |
| Make | Chevrolet | GMC |
| Model | Nova | Terrain |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| 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 | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1764 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4707 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2857 mm |
