1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 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 5 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1978 Mazda 626 (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (128 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda 626 | 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 626 | Jetta |
Year Released | 1978 | 1984 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 142 Nm | 128 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |