1991 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1991 Chevrolet Nova is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort 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 @ 4600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 528 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. 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, 1986 Ford Escort, 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 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Chevrolet Nova | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Nova | Escort |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5025 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.4 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 151 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1438 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2520 mm |
