1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2008 Mazda Tribute
To start off, 2008 Mazda Tribute 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 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda Tribute (153 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster 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 Tribute, 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 Tribute (201 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda Tribute 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 Tribute | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | Tribute |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 2070 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
