1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero
To start off, 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero 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 1,834 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero (118 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 215 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 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda 626. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero will offer significantly more control. 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 Mitsubishi Pajero (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 626 | Pajero |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 89 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2460 mm |
