1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2013 Dodge GRAND CARAVAN

To start off, 2013 Dodge GRAND CARAVAN is newer by 35 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Dodge GRAND CARAVAN is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Dodge GRAND CARAVAN (279 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Dodge GRAND CARAVAN should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Dodge GRAND CARAVAN weights approximately 880 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, 2013 Dodge GRAND CARAVAN, 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, 2013 Dodge GRAND CARAVAN (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Dodge GRAND CARAVAN will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 2013 Dodge GRAND CARAVAN 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. 2013 Dodge GRAND CARAVAN will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Mazda 626 2013 Dodge GRAND CARAVAN
Make Mazda Dodge
Model 626 GRAND CARAVAN
Year Released 1978 2013
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1970 cc 3600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 79 HP 279 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 142 Nm 353 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 7 seats
Vehicle Weight 1170 kg 2050 kg
Vehicle Length 4310 mm 5151 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 2247 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1725 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 3078 mm