1994 Holden Nova vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Holden Nova would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1994 Holden Nova. (114 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1994 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Holden Nova weights approximately 5 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Holden Nova. (155 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Holden Nova. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1994 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1994 Holden Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Holden Nova | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2329 mm |
