1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1996 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1996 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 18 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, 1996 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 64 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, 1996 Mazda MX-3, 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 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 1996 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2460 mm |
