1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,768 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 285 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1978 Mazda 626 (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda 626 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 626 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 93 HP | 102 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |