2009 Ford Focus vs. 1989 Holden Nova
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Holden Nova would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (296 HP) has 215 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 265 kg more than 1989 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Ford Focus (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova. 2009 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1989 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1989 Holden Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1989 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Focus | Nova |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1015 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
