1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 34 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (201 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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, 2012 Honda Civic (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | 626 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
