1975 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Chevrolet Nova (143 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 70 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Chevrolet Nova. (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Chevrolet Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Chevrolet Nova | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | 3 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2650 mm |
