1996 Holden Nova vs. 1986 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 1996 Holden Nova is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,089 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Fairlane (137 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1996 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 567 kg more than 1996 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Ford Fairlane 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 1986 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1986 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Holden Nova. 1986 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 1996 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1996 Holden Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Holden Nova | 1986 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Holden | Ford |
| Model | Nova | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 4089 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2950 mm |
