1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (143 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 62 kg more than 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3.
Because 1974 Chevrolet Nova 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 1974 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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 MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (340 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. 1974 Chevrolet Nova has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Chevrolet Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Nova | 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2639 mm |
