1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2009 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2009 Toyota Matrix is newer by 31 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 2,362 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 335 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, 2009 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2009 Toyota Matrix (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2009 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 626 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
