1974 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1998 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 54 kg more than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Chevrolet Vega. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-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, 1974 Chevrolet Vega (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-3. 1974 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Chevrolet Vega | 1998 Mazda MX-3 | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Vega | MX-3 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2285 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1059 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4230 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 65 L |