1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2002 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Maxima is newer by 24 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 1,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 245 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, 2002 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2002 Nissan Maxima (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 2002 Nissan Maxima 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. 2002 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda 626 | 2002 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 626 | Maxima |
Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 142 Nm | 181 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |