1988 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,032 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Chevrolet Caprice (138 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Chevrolet Caprice should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 814 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1988 Chevrolet Caprice (347 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 1988 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Chevrolet Caprice | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Caprice | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5032 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 347 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 | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2650 mm |
