1972 Chevrolet Chevelle vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 40 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 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle should accelerate faster than 2012 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, 2012 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 (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Chevelle | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5012 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
