1998 Holden Nova vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1998 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 458 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 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Holden Nova. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Holden Nova. (135 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Holden Nova. 2003 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Holden Nova | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2680 mm |
