1991 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 5,025 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1991 Chevrolet Nova. (200 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1991 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 10 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1991 Chevrolet Nova (407 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1991 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Chevrolet Nova | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5025 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1438 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
