1970 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Chevrolet Vega 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 1970 Chevrolet Vega. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1970 Chevrolet Vega (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1970 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Chevrolet Vega | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Vega | 3 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
