1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 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 1,768 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 626 (93 HP) has 34 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1986 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 626 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2560 mm |
