1980 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 3,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Chevrolet Caprice (114 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 335 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1980 Chevrolet Caprice (237 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1980 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chevrolet Caprice | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Caprice | 3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3753 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2650 mm |
