1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo 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 Monte Carlo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 47 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo 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 Monte Carlo. 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 Monte Carlo (332 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo 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 Monte Carlo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Monte Carlo | 3 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 60 L |
