1976 Chevrolet Nova vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 189 kg more than 2010 Mazda 3.
Because 1976 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 1976 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 1976 Chevrolet Nova (258 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1976 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chevrolet Nova | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | 3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1301 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2639 mm |
