1990 Holden Nova vs. 2003 Holden Astra
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Holden Nova would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Astra (120 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1990 Holden Nova. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1990 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Astra weights approximately 137 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Holden Nova. 2003 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 1990 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1990 Holden Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Holden Nova | 2003 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Nova | Astra |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 120 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2610 mm |
