1977 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 1998 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Chevrolet Caprice (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 661 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1977 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1977 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1977 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-3. 1977 Chevrolet Caprice 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. 1977 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Chevrolet Caprice | 1998 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Caprice | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2460 mm |
