1996 Holden Nova vs. 1989 Holden Barina
To start off, 1996 Holden Nova is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Holden Barina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Holden Barina would be higher. At 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Holden Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Holden Nova (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1989 Holden Barina. (67 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Barina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Holden Nova weights approximately 335 kg more than 1989 Holden Barina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Holden Nova (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Barina. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1996 Holden Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Barina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Holden Nova | 1989 Holden Barina | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Nova | Barina |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2250 mm |
