2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1974 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 260 kg more than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1974 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Nova |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2830 mm |
