1972 Chevrolet Chevelle vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 37 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 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 241 kg more than 2009 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, 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, 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Chevelle | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.2 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1483 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
