1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2001 Citroen C5
To start off, 2001 Citroen C5 is newer by 23 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen C5 (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Citroen C5 weights approximately 280 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, 2001 Citroen C5, 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, 2001 Citroen C5 (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 2001 Citroen C5 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. 2001 Citroen C5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2001 Citroen C5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Citroen |
| Model | 626 | C5 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
