1973 Chrysler Centura vs. 2002 Mazda 626
To start off, 2002 Mazda 626 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chrysler Centura (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 626 weights approximately 126 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Centura.
Because 1973 Chrysler Centura 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 1973 Chrysler Centura. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 626, 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, 1973 Chrysler Centura (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 626. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Centura | 2002 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Centura | 626 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2680 mm |
