1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1968 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Chevrolet Nova (165 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 372 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Chevrolet Nova 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 1968 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1968 Chevrolet Nova (388 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1968 Chevrolet Nova has manual transmission. 1968 Chevrolet Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1968 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cavalier | Nova |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2830 mm |
