2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1974 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 34 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 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (143 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 5 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider.
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, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 1974 Chevrolet Nova (340 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. 1974 Chevrolet Nova has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Chevrolet Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1974 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Chevrolet |
| Model | Spider | Nova |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 5736 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2830 mm |
