1991 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 17 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, 1991 Chevrolet Nova (200 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 35 kg more than 1991 Chevrolet Nova.
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, 2008 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 259 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1991 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Chevrolet Nova | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5025 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1438 kg | 1473 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |
