2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1974 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 35 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, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (143 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 289 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt.
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, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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 Chevrolet Cobalt (353 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (340 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. 1974 Chevrolet Nova has automatic transmission and 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt has manual transmission. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt 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:
| 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1974 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cobalt | Nova |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 5736 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2830 mm |
