1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (217 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1064 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 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 1997 Chevrolet Express. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (379 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Express | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 379 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2364 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2639 mm |
