This is an interesting drag race of the past and present. It is also a reminder to show us how far technology has come that a behemoth of a truck can challenge a muscle car of an era begone. The Ram 1500 TRX packs 702 hp and is backed by modern technology and sophisticated components.
However, the simpler 70s Chevy Nova has a history of being used for drag racing, and so has a zeal even in challenging situations like these. We analyze this RAM Vs Chevy drag race closely and try to deduce the factors responsible for the outcome, which for the record, was surprising. Read on to find out which vehicle wins this oddball of a drag race.
RAM 1500 TRX Vs Chevrolet Nova: Going Head-To-Head
The Chevy Nova participating in this event is a 1970 model, while the Ram 1500 TRX is a 2022 MY. When both vehicles are given the “go,” they both take off, but the Ram goes faster upon taking off, maintaining the lead through the entire race by roughly 10-20 feet. When they cross the finish line, the Ram finishes in 10.9 seconds ds whereas the Nova clocks in at 11.1 seconds. The race is short, having been half a mile, most likely. But certain factors probably helped contribute to the TRX's victory.
The most evident of which are modern powertrain elements that help put down power more efficiently despite the curb weight difference. The RAM packs an automatic transmission while the Chevy Nova, most likely, has an old-school stick. Another aspect to note is that the TRX topped out at 124 mph but in stock form, the top speed is capped at 118 mph. So, this indicates that the truck might have had its speed limit removed via an ECU flash.
Chevrolet Nova Has Drag Racing History
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This drag race is not a random face-off. The Chevy Nora has a history in drag racing during its ripe times. In the past, Novas have drag raced other cars, such as a Dodge Challenger. There are even instances of a Nova has drag-racing a prison bus! The Nova's chassis is heavy-duty, and it has front and rear springs. It has aerodynamically-favorable dimensions that would lend the vehicle to drag racing.
Depending on the model used, Novas can either come with a V8 or an L6 engine, and it's well-known how much HP a V8 engine can put out. For a 1975 Nova, at 3800 RPM, the L6 engine puts out 105 RPM, while the V8 engine puts out either 140 or 165 hp.
The front sports disc brakes while the rear sports drum brakes. The transmission comes in either a three-speed or four-speed manual. But by the looks of it, this particular Nova looks to have been given the drag makeover with a more powerful powertrain layout.
RAM 1500 TRX Is A Supertruck
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RAM trucks also offer their features that prove advantageous in terms of drag racing. Foremost, the 6.2-L V8 engine puts out 702 HP and 650 lb-ft of torque, so raw power is a significant factor in play. With a top speed of 118 MPH, the Ram TRX could outrace a lot more vehicles other than this drag-spec Chevy Nova. The tires themselves are also made for any terrain, with traction-focused tread and bead lock-capable sidewalls.
It's also worth noting that the tires were crafted especially for TRX trucks and are 35-inch tires that necessitated the front axle to move 20 mm forward. Tires like these are made for a wider use-case scenario. On top of that, the Ram TRX has an intake system that ensures the air reaching the engine is purged of impurities, allowing the engine to perform efficiently without dirty air and debris weighing the engine down.
The Ram TRX also is more lightweight and achieves superior fuel economy thanks to its use of lightweight, high-strength aluminum on the chassis, most notably for the tailgate, the hood, and the doors. And with the vehicle being more lightweight, it can operate more easily in gear while not being weighed down, so to speak.
RAM 1500 TRX Encases Modern Technology
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RAM states that the TRX is “by far, the quickest, fastest, most powerful pickup truck in the world.” A bold claim, to be sure. However, that would explain Ram's victory in the drag race. There is a level of performance flexibility to the RAM, with its modern engineering allowing it to excel in terms of acceleration and speed. Ram describes the truck as a “Baja beast,” but in addition to that, it's known for its overall performance and its off-road capabilities.
So if it can do all that, then being able to add drag racing to the list is hardly a surprise. On top of that, eight modes are available, all with an emphasis on performance, and the 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen is no slouch either. Ram notes how the materials involved in the creation of the TRX were chosen for their performance capabilities.
Sources: Drag Racing And Car Stuff Via YouTube, Chevrolet, Stellantis