1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1962 MG MGA
To start off, 1978 Mazda 626 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 626 (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1962 MG MGA. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1962 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1962 MG MGA. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1978 Mazda 626 (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 1962 MG MGA | |
| Make | Mazda | MG |
| Model | 626 | MGA |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2390 mm |
