1994 Holden Nova vs. 1981 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 1994 Holden Nova is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Holden Nova (114 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (102 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Holden Nova weights approximately 32 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 1981 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Holden Nova, 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, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (167 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Holden Nova. (155 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Holden Nova | 1981 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1762 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1098 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2620 mm |
