1973 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (113 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Vega.
Because 1973 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 1973 Chevrolet Vega. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chevrolet Vega. 1973 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chevrolet Vega | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Vega | 3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
