1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2001 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2001 Opel Vectra 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Vectra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Vectra weights approximately 385 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 Opel Vectra, 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 Opel Vectra (170 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2001 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 626 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2740 mm |
