1988 Vauxhall Nova vs. 2003 Acura RSX
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 15 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1988 Vauxhall Nova. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1988 Vauxhall Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura RSX weights approximately 482 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.
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, 2003 Acura RSX (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Vauxhall Nova. (68 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Vauxhall Nova. 2003 Acura RSX 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. 2003 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Vauxhall Nova | 2003 Acura RSX | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Acura |
| Model | Nova | RSX |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 991 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1222 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2540 mm |
