The 1.2-litre overhead-cam engine typically produced around 55 brake horsepower (bhp). While this sounds low today, it was considered very flexible and energetic for a car weighing only around 800 kilos.
Simple, "old-school" mechanicals mean it can be maintained easily by anyone with a basic set of tools and a Haynes manual. Practicality & Handling 1984 Vauxhall Nova Reviews - Carsurvey.org Nova 1.2
Described as "sprightly" around town, with decent, "unfussed" performance for its time. Nova 1.2
A four-speed gearbox was standard on many early models (like the Merit), while a five-speed gearbox was available on others, helping it cruise better. Nova 1.2
Excellent fuel efficiency was a hallmark of the 1.2, often achieving high MPG figures (over 40-55 mpg in some reports).