1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2006 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2006 Toyota 4Runner 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 3,948 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota 4Runner (236 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 360 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, 2006 Toyota 4Runner, 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, 2006 Toyota 4Runner (361 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2006 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 626 | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 3948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2800 mm |
