1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2005 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2005 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 27 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saab 05-Sep (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 600 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, 2005 Saab 05-Sep, 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, 2005 Saab 05-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2005 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 626 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
