1998 Holden Nova vs. 1987 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1998 Holden Nova is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Holden Commodore (153 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1998 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1998 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Holden Commodore weights approximately 150 kg more than 1998 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Holden Commodore 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 1987 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Holden Nova, 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, 1987 Holden Commodore (247 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1987 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Holden Nova | 1987 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Nova | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 247 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2670 mm |
