1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1987 Saab 9000
To start off, 1987 Saab 9000 is newer by 9 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Saab 9000 (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Saab 9000 weights approximately 135 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.
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, 1987 Saab 9000, 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, 1987 Saab 9000 (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1987 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda 626 | 1987 Saab 9000 | |
Make | Mazda | Saab |
Model | 626 | 9000 |
Year Released | 1978 | 1987 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 142 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1305 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |