1988 Buick Reatta vs. 1974 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 1988 Buick Reatta is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Reatta (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Reatta should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Reatta weights approximately 46 kg more than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Buick Reatta, 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, 1988 Buick Reatta (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Reatta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick Reatta | 1974 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
| Model | Reatta | Nova |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2830 mm |
