1989 Holden Nova vs. 2001 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2001 Smart Roadster is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Holden Nova would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Holden Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Holden Nova (90 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2001 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Holden Nova weights approximately 155 kg more than 2001 Smart Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Smart Roadster 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 2001 Smart Roadster. 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, 1989 Holden Nova (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1989 Holden Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Holden Nova | 2001 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Holden | Smart |
| Model | Nova | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2370 mm |
