1991 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 18 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 30 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 120 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 166 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (241 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1991 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Chevrolet Nova | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5025 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1438 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2580 mm |
