1987 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1987 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Chevrolet Corvette (245 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 32 kg more than 1987 Chevrolet Corvette.
Because 1987 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 1987 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 1987 Chevrolet Corvette (467 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1987 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Chevrolet Corvette | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Corvette | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5735 cc | 2260 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 245 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 467 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1518 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
