1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 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 1,768 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 626 (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 234 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda 626 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 626 | Golf |
Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 93 HP | 84 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1229 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2578 mm |