1972 Chevrolet Chevelle vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle would be higher. At 5,011 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle weights approximately 89 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle 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 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. 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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Chevelle | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5011 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
