1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2006 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2006 Pontiac Vibe is newer by 28 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, 2006 Pontiac Vibe (119 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Vibe should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Pontiac Vibe weights approximately 87 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 2006 Pontiac Vibe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda 626. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Vibe will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Pontiac Vibe (156 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Pontiac Vibe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2006 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 626 | Vibe |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| 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 | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1257 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
