1989 Holden Nova vs. 1981 ZIL 4104
To start off, 1989 Holden Nova is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 ZIL 4104. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 ZIL 4104 would be higher. At 7,691 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 ZIL 4104 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 ZIL 4104 (310 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 ZIL 4104 should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 ZIL 4104 weights approximately 2315 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 1981 ZIL 4104 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 1981 ZIL 4104. 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, 1981 ZIL 4104 (608 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 473 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 ZIL 4104 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova. 1981 ZIL 4104 has automatic transmission and 1989 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1989 Holden Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 ZIL 4104 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Holden Nova | 1981 ZIL 4104 | |
| Make | Holden | ZIL |
| Model | Nova | 4104 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 7691 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 608 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 3335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 2090 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 3340 mm |
