Dacia Nova
The first car designed and engineered entirely in Romania.
- Power
- 72 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 16.2 s
- Top speed
- 99 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$5k
About the Dacia Nova
Launched in 1995, the Dacia Nova was a landmark for the Romanian automotive industry as the first model developed entirely in-house rather than under Renault licence. Its design, which drew inspiration from 1980s French hatchbacks like the Renault 11 and Peugeot 309, was already considered dated at launch due to a protracted development cycle that began in the mid-1980s. The 1.6-litre engine was a carburetted evolution of the long-serving Cléon-Fonte unit, providing modest performance for a budget-focused family car. While it struggled with build quality issues and was never a bestseller compared to the ubiquitous 1310, it paved the way for the Renault-led modernisation of the brand.
Dacia Nova specs
The Dacia Nova produces 72 bhp (54 kW) and 122 Nm (90 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 16.2 seconds and has a top speed of 99 mph (160 km/h).
| Make | Dacia |
|---|---|
| Model | Nova |
| Trim | 1.6 |
| Years | 1995–2000 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Romania |
| Production | About 38,063 built |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,557 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 72 bhp (54 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 122 Nm (90 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 16.2 s |
| Top speed | 99 mph (160 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 930 kg (2,050 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 77 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Dacia Nova worth?
A typical Dacia Nova is estimated to be worth $1,500 – $4,500 (about £1,100 – £3,400).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Dacia Nova rarity in CarSpot
The Dacia Nova is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 20 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Dacia Nova fun facts
- The Nova's name was chosen through a public competition in Romania that gathered 44 different suggestions.
- Despite its 1990s launch, the Nova's development (Project R523) actually started in the 1980s, explaining its retro appearance.
- The 1.6 GT version used a double-barrelled Carfil carburettor sourced from the Oltcit, which improved performance but led to high fuel consumption.