1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2008 Mazda 2
To start off, 2008 Mazda 2 is newer by 30 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, 1978 Mazda 626 (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 2. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 2 weights approximately 159 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626.
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, 2008 Mazda 2, 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, 2008 Mazda 2 (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2008 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2500 mm |
