1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 5,670 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 357 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 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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 Pontiac Grand Prix (438 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 626 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 5670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 438 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2810 mm |
