2005 Cadillac Catera vs. 1982 Vauxhall Nova

To start off, 2005 Cadillac Catera is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Vauxhall Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Vauxhall Nova would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac Catera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac Catera (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1982 Vauxhall Nova. (53 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac Catera should accelerate faster than 1982 Vauxhall Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac Catera weights approximately 950 kg more than 1982 Vauxhall Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Cadillac Catera 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 2005 Cadillac Catera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Vauxhall Nova, 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, 2005 Cadillac Catera (260 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Vauxhall Nova. (92 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac Catera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Vauxhall Nova. 2005 Cadillac Catera has automatic transmission and 1982 Vauxhall Nova has manual transmission. 1982 Vauxhall Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Cadillac Catera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Cadillac Catera 1982 Vauxhall Nova
Make Cadillac Vauxhall
Model Catera Nova
Year Released 2005 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2962 cc 1196 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 200 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 260 Nm 92 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 2200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85 mm 61 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1705 kg 755 kg
Vehicle Length 4890 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1550 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2350 mm