1996 Holden Nova vs. 2002 Holden Vectra
To start off, 2002 Holden Vectra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Holden Nova would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Holden Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Holden Vectra (139 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Holden Vectra should accelerate faster than 1996 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Holden Vectra weights approximately 210 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.
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, 2002 Holden Vectra (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2002 Holden Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Holden Nova. 2002 Holden Vectra 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. 2002 Holden Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Holden Nova | 2002 Holden Vectra | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Nova | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2650 mm |
