1977 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1977 Chevrolet Caprice. (109 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 370 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
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, 2012 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, 1977 Chevrolet Caprice (280 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1977 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1977 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 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 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Caprice | 3 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2639 mm |
