1978 Mazda 818 vs. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier (121 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 215 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 818 | 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 818 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2650 mm |
