1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2008 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mini Cooper weights approximately 145 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 Mini Cooper, 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 Mini Cooper (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2008 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mazda | Mini |
| Model | 626 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |
