1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2000 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 22 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), 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 626 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2600 mm |
