1971 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Chevrolet Vega. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. 1971 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chevrolet Vega | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Vega | 3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
