1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1995 Mazda 323
To start off, 1995 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 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 @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1995 Mazda 323. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda 323 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626.
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, 1995 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, 1995 Mazda 323 (168 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1995 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 | 1995 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 626 | 323 |
Year Released | 1978 | 1995 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1686 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 93 HP | 82 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |