1991 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 22 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 32 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 78 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1991 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1991 Chevrolet Nova has manual transmission. 1991 Chevrolet Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Chevrolet Nova | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5025 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1438 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2537 mm |
