2008 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Holden Nova
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Holden Nova would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Holden Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Nova (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (90 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 297 kg more than 1997 Holden Nova.
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, 2008 Ford Focus (215 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1997 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Focus | Nova |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
