1987 Vauxhall Nova vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1987 Vauxhall Nova is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1987 Vauxhall Nova. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana should accelerate faster than 1987 Vauxhall Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Santana weights approximately 250 kg more than 1987 Vauxhall Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Vauxhall Nova. (68 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Santana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Vauxhall Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Vauxhall Nova | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Santana |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2560 mm |
