1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2005 Toyota Corolla

To start off, 2005 Toyota Corolla 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota Corolla (130 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Corolla should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 13 kg more than 2005 Toyota Corolla.

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 Toyota Corolla, 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 Toyota Corolla (171 Nm) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm). This means 2005 Toyota Corolla will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Mazda 626 2005 Toyota Corolla
Make Mazda Toyota
Model 626 Corolla
Year Released 1978 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1970 cc 1786 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 79 HP 130 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 3400 RPM
Torque 142 Nm 171 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1170 kg 1157 kg
Vehicle Length 4310 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2720 mm