1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 29 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 10 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
