1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 466 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda 626 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 626 | Passat |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1768 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 93 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1461 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2712 mm |