2002 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1968 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 5,025 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Impala (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 45 kg more than 1968 Chevrolet Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Chevrolet Nova 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 1968 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 1968 Chevrolet Nova (318 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Impala. (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Impala. 2002 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1968 Chevrolet Nova has manual transmission. 1968 Chevrolet Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Impala | 1968 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Impala | Nova |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 5025 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 98.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2830 mm |
