2003 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 1968 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 35 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, 1968 Chevrolet Nova (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 400 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm, 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 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Prizm | 1968 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Prizm | Nova |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 5025 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2830 mm |
