1985 Dodge Daytona vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 1985 Dodge Daytona is newer by 7 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 2,212 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Dodge Daytona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Dodge Daytona (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Dodge Daytona should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Dodge Daytona weights approximately 145 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, 1985 Dodge Daytona, 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, 1985 Dodge Daytona (162 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1985 Dodge Daytona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Dodge Daytona | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Daytona | 626 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2212 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
