1997 Holden Nova vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Holden Nova would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1997 Holden Nova. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1997 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Holden Nova | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2639 mm |
