1998 Holden Nova vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 14 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1998 Holden Nova.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Holden Nova. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic 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. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Holden Nova | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Holden | Chevrolet |
| Model | Nova | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2525 mm |
