1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 11 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 124 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
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, 1989 Mazda 323, 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda 626 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 626 | 323 |
Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 142 Nm | 164 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1046 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |