1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2005 Saturn LW
To start off, 2005 Saturn LW 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn LW is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn LW (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn LW should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn LW weights approximately 228 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 Saturn LW, 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 Saturn LW (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Saturn LW will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2005 Saturn LW | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 626 | LW |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
