1982 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Chevrolet Corvette (200 HP) has 52 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 154 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Chevrolet Corvette 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 1982 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 1982 Chevrolet Corvette (385 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1982 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Chevrolet Corvette | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Corvette | 3 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1454 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 55 L |
