2009 Chevrolet Avalanche vs. 1978 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche (310 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 229 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche will offer significantly more control. 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 Chevrolet Avalanche (455 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche | 1978 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Avalanche | Nova |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 310 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 455 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5630 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1950 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2830 mm |
