1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2010 Suzuki SX4
To start off, 2010 Suzuki SX4 is newer by 32 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 1,956 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Suzuki SX4 (133 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Suzuki SX4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Suzuki SX4 weights approximately 405 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, 2010 Suzuki SX4, 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, 2010 Suzuki SX4 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2010 Suzuki SX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2010 Suzuki SX4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 626 | SX4 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1605 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2500 mm |
