1999 BMW M5 vs. 1978 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 1999 BMW M5 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 4,900 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW M5 (401 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW M5 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1999 BMW M5 (499 Nm) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm). This means 1999 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW M5 | 1978 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | M5 | Nova |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4900 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 499 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2830 mm |
