1996 Holden Nova vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 15 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 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1996 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1996 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 715 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 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Holden Nova | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Holden | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Nova | 159 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 322 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
