1986 Ford Fairlane vs. 1997 Holden Nova
To start off, 1997 Holden Nova is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,089 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Fairlane (137 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1997 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1997 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 542 kg more than 1997 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Ford Fairlane 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 1986 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Holden Nova, 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, 1986 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Holden Nova. 1997 Holden Nova has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Fairlane has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Fairlane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Holden Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Fairlane | 1997 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Fairlane | Nova |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4089 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2470 mm |
