1979 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 420 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 1979 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 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1979 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1979 Chevrolet Caprice 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. 1979 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Chevrolet Caprice | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Caprice | 3 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5002 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 333 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2639 mm |