1971 Chevrolet El Camino vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chevrolet El Camino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chevrolet El Camino would be higher. At 5,013 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Chevrolet El Camino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Chevrolet El Camino (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Chevrolet El Camino should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 1971 Chevrolet El Camino 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 1971 Chevrolet El Camino. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chevrolet El Camino. (324 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chevrolet El Camino. 1971 Chevrolet El Camino has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Chevrolet El Camino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chevrolet El Camino | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | El Camino | 3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5013 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 324 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
