1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2004 Skoda Fabia
To start off, 2004 Skoda Fabia is newer by 26 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, 1978 Mazda 626 (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 Skoda Fabia. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 2004 Skoda Fabia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Skoda Fabia weights approximately 245 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626.
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, 2004 Skoda Fabia, 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, 2004 Skoda Fabia (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Skoda Fabia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2004 Skoda Fabia | |
| Make | Mazda | Skoda |
| Model | 626 | Fabia |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1420 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |
