1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 475 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda 626 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 626 | Passat |
Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 93 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 225 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |