1978 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (150 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice.
Because 1978 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 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice (280 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Caprice | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Caprice | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1999 cc |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2650 mm |
