2002 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1978 Mazda 818
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Impala (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 535 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 1978 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2002 Chevrolet Impala (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Impala | 1978 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Impala | 818 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2320 mm |
