1991 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1991 Chevrolet Nova is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,025 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Chevrolet Nova (200 HP) has 141 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 496 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Chevrolet Nova 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 1991 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1991 Chevrolet Nova (407 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Chevrolet Nova | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5025 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1438 kg | 942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2560 mm |
