1990 Holden Nova vs. 1981 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 1990 Holden Nova is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (102 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1990 Holden Nova. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda Cosmo should accelerate faster than 1990 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 83 kg more than 1990 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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 Mazda Cosmo (167 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Holden Nova | 1981 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 102 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 1098 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
