1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1994 Opel Calibra
To start off, 1994 Opel Calibra is newer by 16 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Opel Calibra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Opel Calibra (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Opel Calibra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Opel Calibra weights approximately 20 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, 1994 Opel Calibra, 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, 1994 Opel Calibra (173 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1994 Opel Calibra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 1994 Opel Calibra has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1994 Opel Calibra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 1994 Opel Calibra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 626 | Calibra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
