1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1972 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 1978 Mazda 626 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mazda RX-4 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-4.
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 Mazda RX-4 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 Mazda RX-4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 1972 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
