1988 Dodge Colt vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 1988 Dodge Colt is newer by 10 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Dodge Colt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Dodge Colt (96 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Colt should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Dodge Colt weights approximately 25 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, 1988 Dodge Colt, 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, 1988 Dodge Colt (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Dodge Colt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Colt | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Colt | 626 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
