1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 1997 Mazda 323 is newer by 19 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 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 220 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, 1997 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, 1997 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 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 | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 626 | 323 |
Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 93 HP | 142 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1215 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |