1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2000 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2000 Smart ForFour 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), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Smart ForFour (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2000 Smart ForFour.
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 Smart ForFour, 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. 2000 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2000 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | 626 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
