2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1978 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (261 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt 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 Cobalt.
Because 1978 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 1978 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 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Nova. (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1978 Chevrolet Nova | |
Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
Model | Cobalt | Nova |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 4093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 261 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 353 Nm | 258 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2830 mm |