1991 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 1991 Chevrolet Nova is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 5,025 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Chevrolet Nova (200 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 453 kg more than 1978 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 18, 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, 1991 Chevrolet Nova (407 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Chevrolet Nova | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Nova | 18 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5025 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.4 mm | 76.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1438 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
