1989 Holden Nova vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1989 Holden Nova is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (296 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 730 kg more than 1989 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Pontiac Firebird 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 1973 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (563 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 428 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1973 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Holden Nova | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Holden | Pontiac |
| Model | Nova | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 7462 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 563 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2750 mm |
