1978 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (280 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Caprice | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Caprice | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2639 mm |
