1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1972 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1978 Mazda 626 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Datsun 240Z weights approximately 73 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. 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, 1972 Datsun 240Z (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1972 Datsun 240Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 1972 Datsun 240Z has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Datsun 240Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 1972 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | 626 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2300 mm |
