1963 Lotus Seven vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 1978 Mazda 626 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,768 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 626 (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 565 kg more than 1963 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1978 Mazda 626 has automatic transmission and 1963 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1963 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mazda 626 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Lotus Seven | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Seven | 626 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
