1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1957 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1978 Mazda 626 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 626. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1957 Volkswagen Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 1957 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 626 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1560 mm |
