1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 1,768 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 13 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 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 1978 Mazda 626 (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2001 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 626 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1008 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
