1978 Chrysler Avenger vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Avenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Avenger would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Avenger. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Avenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1978 Chrysler Avenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Chrysler Avenger 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 Chrysler Avenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler Avenger. (96 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler Avenger. 2005 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Chrysler Avenger has manual transmission. 1978 Chrysler Avenger will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Avenger | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Avenger | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
