1981 Mazda 626 vs. 1970 Mercury Monterey
To start off, 1981 Mazda 626 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercury Monterey. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercury Monterey would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Mercury Monterey is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mercury Monterey weights approximately 887 kg more than 1981 Mazda 626.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1970 Mercury Monterey has automatic transmission and 1981 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1981 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Mercury Monterey will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 626 | 1970 Mercury Monterey | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 626 | Monterey |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 5769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 163 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1932 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3160 mm |
