1978 Ford Mustang vs. 2006 Mazda 6
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,966 cc, 2006 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 6 (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1978 Ford Mustang. (108 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Mustang weights approximately 96 kg more than 2006 Mazda 6.
Because 1978 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6, 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 6 (270 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Mustang. (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Mustang | 2006 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | 6 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2786 cc | 2966 cc |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2680 mm |
