1988 Vauxhall Nova vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Vauxhall Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Vauxhall Nova would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1988 Vauxhall Nova. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Vauxhall Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1988 Vauxhall Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Vauxhall 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Vauxhall Nova. (68 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Vauxhall Nova. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Vauxhall Nova has manual transmission. 1988 Vauxhall Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Vauxhall Nova | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Vauxhall | BMW |
| Model | Nova | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 991 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2450 mm |
