1981 Vauxhall Chevette vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Chevette would be higher. At 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (56 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette.
Because 1981 Vauxhall Chevette 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 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (89 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Vauxhall Chevette | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Vauxhall | Mazda |
Model | Chevette | 3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1256 cc | 1560 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 56 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 89 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |