2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1980 Vauxhall Chevette
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Vauxhall Chevette would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1980 Vauxhall Chevette. (56 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Vauxhall Chevette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Vauxhall Chevette weights approximately 45 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 1980 Vauxhall Chevette 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 1980 Vauxhall Chevette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Vauxhall Chevette. (92 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Vauxhall Chevette.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1980 Vauxhall Chevette | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | 3 | Chevette |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1256 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
