1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 1996 Renault Megane 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Megane (96 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Megane weights approximately 180 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 Renault Megane, 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, 1996 Renault Megane (200 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 626 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1868 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |
