1989 Holden Nova vs. 2003 Noble M12
To start off, 2003 Noble M12 is newer by 14 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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Noble M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Noble M12 (335 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Noble M12 should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Noble M12 weights approximately 30 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 2003 Noble M12 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 2003 Noble M12. 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, 2003 Noble M12 (485 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Noble M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Holden Nova | 2003 Noble M12 | |
| Make | Holden | Noble |
| Model | Nova | M12 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 485 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2440 mm |
