2004 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Holden Nova
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 6 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1998 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 154 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.
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, 2004 Ford Focus (166 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Holden Nova. 1998 Holden Nova has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Holden Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1998 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Focus | Nova |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2470 mm |
