1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 206 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 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 626 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2578 mm |
