1969 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1969 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1969 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 230 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1969 Chevrolet Impala 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 1969 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Chevrolet Impala. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Chevrolet Impala | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Impala | 3 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2650 mm |
