1996 Holden Nova vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 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 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Holden Nova (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 256 kg more than 1996 Holden Nova.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Holden Nova. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Holden Nova | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1321 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
