1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 315 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, 2008 Mazda 3, 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 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 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 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
