1998 Holden Nova vs. 2003 Pontiac GTO
To start off, 2003 Pontiac GTO is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Holden Nova would be higher. At 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Pontiac GTO is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Pontiac GTO (350 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 1998 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac GTO should accelerate faster than 1998 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Pontiac GTO weights approximately 625 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 2003 Pontiac GTO 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 2003 Pontiac GTO. 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, 2003 Pontiac GTO (495 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Pontiac GTO will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Holden Nova. 2003 Pontiac GTO has automatic transmission and 1998 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1998 Holden Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Pontiac GTO will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Holden Nova | 2003 Pontiac GTO | |
| Make | Holden | Pontiac |
| Model | Nova | GTO |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 5665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 495 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2860 mm |
