2009 BMW 120 vs. 1996 Holden Nova
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Holden Nova would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1996 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1996 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1996 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Holden 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, 2009 BMW 120 (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Holden Nova. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1996 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1996 Holden Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1996 Holden Nova | |
| Make | BMW | Holden |
| Model | 120 | Nova |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2470 mm |
