1983 Vauxhall Nova Dimensions, Size & Specs

The height of the Vauxhall Nova stands at 1358 mm (53.5 inches), giving it a relatively low profile that can aid in aerodynamics and handling. Its curb weight varies from 739 kg to 930 kg (approximately 1,629 to 2,050 pounds), depending on the specific trim and engine configuration. This relatively light weight contributes to fuel efficiency and nimble performance.

The maximum weight (gross vehicle weight) of the Vauxhall Nova ranges from 1215 kg to 1410 kg (2678 to 3109 pounds). This includes the weight of the vehicle itself plus passengers, cargo, and fuel. This relatively moderate maximum weight indicates a practical carrying capacity for small families or daily commuting needs without compromising vehicle stability or safety.

The Vauxhall Nova typically uses rims sized 5J x 14 or 5J x 13 inches, paired with tire sizes 165/65 R14 or 165/70 R13. This combination was standard for compact cars of its time, providing a balance between ride comfort, grip, and fuel economy. The tire width of 165 mm and aspect ratios of 65 and 70 help maintain good road contact without sacrificing efficiency.

Yes, the Vauxhall Nova comfortably fits into a standard garage. Considering average garage dimensions of roughly 2.4 meters (7.9 feet) in width and 5.4 meters (17.7 feet) in length, the Nova’s length of 3.955 meters (12.98 feet) and width of 1.541 meters (5.06 feet) allow it to park easily with adequate clearance on all sides. The modest height of 1.358 meters (4.45 feet) also means you won’t face any vertical clearance issues.

The Vauxhall Nova replaced the Vauxhall Chevette, and it is generally more compact and lighter. The Nova's length is slightly smaller than the Chevette's, which measured around 4.02 meters (158.3 inches), reflecting a design shift toward a more urban-friendly, efficient car. The Nova also tends to be narrower and lower in height, contributing to a sportier profile and improved aerodynamics compared to the Chevette's boxier shape.

In comparison with similar compact sedans of the 1980s, such as the Ford Fiesta Mk2 or the Volkswagen Polo Mk2, the Vauxhall Nova is quite comparable in size, though it tends to be a bit shorter and narrower than its peers. For example, the Fiesta Mk2 has an approximate length of 3.82 meters and a width of 1.64 meters, which means the Nova offered a compact footprint but with slightly narrower width, still providing adequate interior space for its class.

With a curb weight ranging from 739 kg to 930 kg (1,629 to 2,050 pounds), the Vauxhall Nova is relatively light for a sedan of its era. This lighter weight helps improve handling agility and responsiveness, making it easier to navigate city streets and sharp corners. Additionally, the lower weight contributes positively to fuel efficiency since the engine requires less effort to move the car, which aligns well with the compact car market's focus on economy.

Despite its compact external dimensions—length of 3955 mm, width of 1541 mm, and height of 1358 mm—the Vauxhall Nova is designed to comfortably seat four to five passengers. The interior space is optimized with efficient packaging, and while it may not offer the legroom or headroom found in larger cars, it remains practical for daily commuting and small family use. Rear seat space is sufficient for average-sized adults or children with reasonable comfort.

The Vauxhall Nova was positioned as an affordable, reliable, and economical compact sedan targeted at young drivers and small families during its 1983 to 1993 production run. Its key appeals included its compact size for easy city driving, lightweight design for better fuel economy, and a variety of trim configurations to suit different buyer needs. The Nova offered a balance of practicality and economy at a competitive price point in the evolving hatchback and small sedan market of the 1980s.